Kate in Stunning Blue Jenny Packham Gown for Widlife Photographer of the Year Awards

It's been quite a day for the Duchess who participated in a state visit for the first time earlier today, welcoming President Tony Tan of Singapore and his wife. Kate's health has obviously been improving and she felt well enough to undertake two engagements today.

The Duchess was all smiles upon arrival and greeted by staff from the Natural History Museum and a sizeable media presence.

As patron of the museum and a keen photographer herself, the event was a perfect choice for Kate.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is one of the world's most prestigious photography competitions. An international panel of judges select one hundred photographs to be showcased in the exhibition, opening at the museum on Friday. The acclaimed show celebrates the rich diversity of life on our planet while highlighting the fragility of nature.

Natural History Museum

When Herfried Marek woke one October morning and looked out the window of his home in Worschach, Austria, he was taken by surprise at the transformation. Everything was covered in a thin blanket of white.

Natural History Museum

The under-18's category offers incredible talent too. Take a look at this photo taken by 17-year-old Edwin Sahlin in northern Sweden.

Natural History Museum

10-year-old Leon Pertinos took this photo of a cheetah lying down on his first safari in the Maasai Mara in Kenya.

Natural History Museum

It is a striking exhibition showcasing immense talent, and offering a glimpse into our natural world many of us may never see. After its première in London, the exhibition embarks on an international tour across six continents, giving millions of people across the world the chance to view some of the world's most memorable wildlife photography. If you're interested in visiting click here for more information.

Kate teamed up with world famous naturalist Sir David Attenborough to present the awards.

We had hoped (very much hoped) Kate would take the formal route and choose a full-length wrap dress for tonight and she certainly didn't disappoint in a stunning powder blue Jenny Packham gown. The three-quarter-sleeve gown features a split to the waist with a skirt underneath, which shows off Kate's legs to perfection.

Jenny Packham's brother Chris is a popular British naturalist who presents BBC's Springwatch and Autumnwatch. Kate often takes many factors into consideration when selecting a designer for a specific event and I thought it worth noting.

There are similar Jenny Packham gowns encompassing many of the elements in Kate's dress currently available. Below we look at the Wrap Front Beaded Gown - a decadent design with all-over bead embellishment - and the Three-Quarter-Sleeve Beaded Tulle Gown with the same gathered-into waist. The gown retails for £3,783.

Jenny Packham

I love this dress and think it's so refreshing to see Kate in a youthful yet elegant garment. Kate has made her return to engagements in style and this look is a splendid choice for the glamorous evening. A memorable look for the Duchess without question. What do you think of it?

It was an excellent day for royal watchers and lovely to see Kate supporting her patronage in style tonight. We will see the Duchess on 23 October when she'll attend a gala in aid of her patronage Action on Addiction!

188 comments:

Hello sexy preggo mama, Kate!! I'd love to be a fly on the wall when the Queen sees these photos lol.

Wow almost forgot about these shoes, they were in storage for so long. Love how long & glossy her hair is but wish it was away from her chest to show off the necklace. Is that necklace costume or real?

AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING! FINALLY! I honestly havent seen her look this good in months! Yes, I would have loved it if she had worn her hair up but this dress and these shoes were such a knockout! i had hoped she would wear two new outfits today and she did! AMEN

Yes Jane, it is disturbing. We all have our own opinions but I believe that they can be expressed without referring to Kate's hair as "that mop" and her knees as "knobby." BTW, the girl has amazing legs, no knobby knees there.

She looks much better rested tonight! While I love both the shoes and the dress, I'm not sure they make perfect sense together (aside from the really cute baby blue/baby pink theme!). I think something a little more delicate on her feet may have looked better. But so relieved to see her looking so well after looking under the weather this morning! Her hair looks FAB and I can't wait to see closer pictures of that necklace!

That was my first thought when I saw her legs with this dress (vs her legs with her morning look)! and I don't really like her legs orange. I can't get "tanning mom" out of my head - not that Kate looks as orange as that lady. I can't understand with the obsession to be "tanned" / orange.

Wow! That dress is spectacular. Just been watching her on TV She looks beautiful.Didn't notice the necklace until you pointed it out. Gets hidden by her hair---but wearing it down is still how I prefer it, though when outside in the wind, this morning's tie-back was elegant and sensible.This morning most of the press photos were of Catherine and tonight the TV hasn't even mentioned the banquet---the reporters are all too busy at the Natural History Museum.

I agree, Marion and Rebecca. I thought it was exquisite--the draping was so graceful and distinctive. And the shoes were divine. I missed them back in 2011--remember the beautiful pink gown, but not the shoes--I guess I was just getting up to speed with noting and "cataloguing" all her apparel. P.S. I do think she was teasing us with the pink and blue color scheme! :-)

Well worth the wait! She looks totally fab tonight. I love the dress and the colour on her, although I wish she had put her hair up so we could see the stunning necklace a bit more. I would say that this babyblue gown is one of my favorite from her wardrobe so far!

Kate looks gorgeous from head to toe - this is her best evening look in a long time! Also, not to be too mushy but couldn't help but notice the chemistry and affection between her and William earlier today - they truly are soulmates :)

Thanks so much for all your work today, Charlotte! Very nice to see Catherine looking more rested tonight, and wonderful that she was able to be at two separate engagements today. I imagine it feels *so* good for her to be upright and feeling better!

I'm extremely impressed with the samples of the photography that you shared. The photos are simply stunning! How cool would it be to be able to see the entire exhibition!

I thought the coatdress color wasn't nearly as flattering as the blue gown this evening. I love the Duchess' curls, but my favorite is when she wears it in a demi-chignon, so we can also see her lovely face.

I love the gown. The color looks terrific on her, but how I wish she had worn her hair up and showed off some baubles. :) I realize many people may not agree with me, but I really do think an up-do would be a more mature and sophisticated look at her age, especially with an evening gown.

I agree, Royalfan... Loved the color and her hair is beautiful, but not like that for an evening gown. She drowns in it. But feels probably protected by it too. I don't find the shoes went with the dress at all, but maybe she was playing with us all : baby blue dress and baby pink shoes :-))) Most important : great to see her smiling and happy.

That's so funny, Theresa. At first, when I saw the gown, I wondered if there would be speculation about it being a "message" about the sex of the baby. But you are so right...she covered both bases. :)

And I think her silver strappy sandals would have been wonderful with this look.

I like the dress and I'm even OK with her hair this time. The dress isn't "dressy" enough to where a formal updo would be mandatory for my taste, but if I am to find fault it's the shoes. Don't get me wrong. I like them a lot. But they're pink! And more than that the side bow thingy doesn't look right. I think the silver Choo sandals would have been a better choice.

bluhare, the sliver sandals would have been perfect, but I do believe Theresa nailed it. It was a touch of humor to counter the potential "Duchess wears BLUE" headlines. Who can blame her for that. :)

As far as the dress not being dressy enough, well, perhaps an updo would have stepped it up that extra notch. Using Charlene as an example... She has chosen some very simple day and evening wear, but it's the overall simplicity that adds to the wow-factor.

I am mostly likely in the minority here but I find the dress just awful. I generally like Jenny Packhams gowns, but she really failed here! The dress looks good when she doesn't move because it has a slight Grecian feel with the gather under the bust, but in motion where the odd miniskirt underneath is revealed shows the design as a mismatch of different lengths. Furthermore, the hem of the skirt is too long because she stepped on it on her way up the stairs - a well tailored gown should not impede the movements of the wearer! I didn't like the sleeves either. I think the problem with them is the slouchy fabric of the dress (jersey?). Grecian style gowns, made of light and flowing material works best without sleeves.

The accessorizing is not good either. Baby pink shoes with baby blue dress is not a good combo IMO, and I really don't like the bows on the shoes (don't like bows at all!). The necklace and earrings are quite lovely, but almost entirely obscured by her lovely hair. In my opinion jewellery should be showcased properly or not at all! A nice updo, a chignon for example, which she has rocked on previous occasions would have showcased the necklace and earrings splendidly. And she looks incredibly elegant in a chignon!If she doesn't care for an updo, I think that the gather under the bust would have been perfect for a discreet brooch deployment. A couple of statement bracelets would have worked as well.

I'm not a fan at all of this dress. I don't like wrap-style dresses on Kate - I think they just emphasize how small her chest area is in a way that is not flattering. I also don't really like the color - I think she looks better in bolder, darker colors. Lastly, I don't like how it shows leg. Don't get me wrong, I'm totally fine with showing leg. I think her Roland Mouret dress did it perfectly - sexy and subtle. With this dress, it just seems a little too obvious/not duchess-like, especially because the skirt under the dress is a little short. I also think that her hair is a little too wild, and looks a little uncontrolled at times. Mostly, I really, really wish that her first appearance back that wasn't state-related would have been to one of her charities, instead of another red-carpet event. That being said, it's good to see her back. She looks a LOT better than she did this morning, which I think also supports what I said on the other post, but that's a different discussion. I understand that she's pregnant and has been ill, so obviously she did not necessarily have a lot of opportunity/energy to think about her appearance. That's another reason why I think a charity visit would have been a better pick - less pressure than a red-carpet event to look perfect.

The evening engagement was for one of her charities. The one in the morning was on behalf of the queen. It was an honor for William & Kate for welcome the President & his wife from Singapore. So both of these were very important engagements for Kate.

good to see Kate back. she looked better in the evening (but they call it morning sickness for a reason, I had it too). The outfits (both) were not bad - but somewhat boring again. That's my view - so please don't shoot me. I know it's probably quintessential British (again - please don't shoot, it's a known thing - perhaps not soo much in the isles, but everywhere else). And the gown had a somewhat puzzling combination of revealing (maybe border-line inappropriate for her role/age/situation?) yet blah... Not sure what to make of it. Not my favourite. Perhaps being her first day back in the public eye she just wanted to feel "safe" (happens a bit too often for my taste). When she came back from the medical time-out during her first pregnancy, she wore that stunning deep green gown to present the Sports awards with David Beckham - now that was NOT boring. I wish she had just repeated that dress. That or the lilac McQueen from LA. didn't even need to be a new one. Not to mention that beautiful emerald-green Packham with a lace back.... Hair was OK in the morning - and all over her in the evening. I was confused about what her intention was... to hide the necklace? Oh well, that's just me. As I said, good to see her back!

I completely agree. Many times I don't post my opinion for fear of the tomatoes that will be thrown at me :P (lol).

What is funny is that many times I don't like what everybody loves and then I like what everybody dislikes.

Anyway, that green McQueen is one of my FAVORITES dresses. I loved it! The Mexican first lady wore a very similar marroon version (lost some of its awesomeness at being a short dress :( )http://www.eldiariodecoahuila.com.mx/fotografias/fotosnoticias/2013/3/7/int-192605.jpg

AMAZING! I think Kate looks fabulous! I will say she looks perfect! I think the dress looks GREAT on her and I love the color. Way to show off those amazing legs! Her hair is lovely and I love the curls, but I would have loved an updo to add to the elegance factor. The shoes are some of my favorites and I LOVED seeing them again. Charlotte, do you have any info an Kate's jewelry? Simple and pretty. She is definitely glowing tonight and did not disappoint!

The photography was incredible! Such talent for such a young group of photographers! Is there any info on who won the award? I'm sure it was a fantastic evening for everyone involved. Are there any video clips of the evening?

It was great to see Kate today and I hope she is on the mend. Looking forward to hearing of more engagements if Kate's health continues to improve. Charlotte, thanks for your posts and hard work today. Brilliant job!

Love the dress; love the shoes; love the hair; love, love, love!! I'm so happy to see Kate--and to see her looking so much better than I thought she would. This morning she looked pretty; tonight she is shining! I am glad that she is on the mend--I can't imagine being as sick as she's been. Also, I need those shoes. I don't know when I'd wear them, but I need them! :)Thanks for the great coverage, Charlotte. Take care, everyone!ShantelMinnesota, USA

Yummy Muumy :-)Thought her evening dress was bold and youthful and she came back to the public eye with an appropriate amount of pizazz! Loved the whole look and after all her hair is her trademark .....Very pleased to see her and I really think she rocked it all day!Simone

Love the dress--the color, cut, and fabric are all appealing. The shoes are cute and playfully suggest the baby gender question. Her hair and makeup look great. I do prefer an updo and loved her ponytail this morning, but she looks wonderful. Love the diamonds with both silver and rose gold, what a great design.

One cannot blame the media for massing at her appearance; but was it a wise thing for her to make an appearance that takes all the spotlight away from all the other royals? Aside from that concern, I'm really glad to have her back to a state of health that allows her to get out and make these kinds of appearances. I can't agree with the poster who suggested she should have made her first appearance a charity: she tried to do that, and she was too sick. She cannot be held responsible when she did try and could not do it.

Wow... the Kate we all know and love is finally back. She looks GORGEOUS! I like everything about this look: her dress, her hair, her shoes. The look is simple but elegant--absolutely STUNNING!!!Betsey, NYC

I'm sorry, but I just don't think this look is royal. I know most everyone goes wild over the sexy, hot look. But it just isn't royal or elegant. Look around the other royalty of the world. They are more regal. I don't know what she has in mind. I like the color -- the shoes are okay, but not classy. Her hair looked better pulled back earlier in the day. I don't know. I'm just disappointed. Her clothes indicate to me at least, she seems more interested in herself than her role of uplifting the British people. I wouldn't like it if I were British.

I couldn't agree more. I don't think she is anywhere close to the class of the other royals. Not sure she has it in her. She is a pretty woman, possibly an intelligent one, seems nice, like her smile - but has a long way to go to get to the class one would hope for. I think she is trying (and oddly enough it seems to me she was closer 3-4 years ago). Hmm... But now I doubt she'll get there. There are many who try to get to be who they aren't, but few succeed...

She looks great, but i agree artiswriter..not royal. at all. she goes for sexy..its a priority for her for some reason. she has blown off royal rules for dressing. she was closer to it in the beginning. afraid to say much more for getting jumped on here, but not royal at all

Artistswriter, I suppose it's impossible for one lady, regardless of how royal or regal, to uplift everybody.

Anon 10:27, I have lost count of the number of times other royal ladies were cited as examples of how to take a chance with fashion and/or to dress less conservatively. This time, she did exactly that, but it still isn't good enough. Oh well. Also, class is not defined by fashion alone. Far from it.

royalfan I totally agree with you. Catherine can not please half the readers here. And it has nothing to do with be royal. And she dresses like a royal should dress. Nobody ever complains about how Sophie dresses. Soimetimes her dresses are questionable. But no they have to pick on Catherine all the time.

Anon at 22:01 - while I agree that it's hard for Kate to please everyone, perhaps the reason that everyone picks on Kate and not Sophie is because this is a blog about Kate :) Additionally, Catherine doesn't do many appearances (I don't mean this negatively, but it is true). So, when she does step out, she is going to be analyzed much more than someone we see a lot. Also, a lot of her appearances lately have been sports-related or red-carpet-esque events....so she doesn't do much other than smile for the cameras (and obviously speak to people, but we don't get to see that as much). So, her clothes are all that CAN be analyzed, versus, for example, a visit to a hospice, where her interactions with the children can be seen as well and/or where she might give a speech. I'm sure she's tired of her wardrobe choices being over-analyzed, but she has to give us something else to analyze in order for us to shift away from criticizing her decisions in clothing. Lastly, she is a future Queen of England. She SHOULD be analyzed more than Sophie, because she is/will be higher ranking.

Also, it IS possible to dress less conservatively while not being over-the-top. I thought this dress was nice when she was standing still. But when moving, it showed a LOT of leg. And when she bent over to talk to the little boy, it was borderline inappropriate for someone of her status, and at an evening event in October. It was just an interesting choice for a red-carpet event. Personally, I'd like for her to dress less conservatively during daytime appearances - those are good opportunities to let out her young, fun side. Red-carpet events are an opportunity for the public to see their royal family look regal and, well...royal! I thought the Roland Mouret gown and the McQueen green gown were both very classy ways of showing some leg. In fact, in general, I think her evening gown attire (up until last night) has been on point. I don't think anyone has really ever said she needs to be less conservative with that group of clothing. I feel like people have more criticism for her day-wear, which remained pretty much the same yesterday.

Her clothing is fine for a royal. The thing that really impacts her appearance over and over again is the hair. All that volume of hair blowing around. Why oh why does she continue to wear it the way she did in her college years? It destroys her style IMHO. Ruins what could be a classy, elegant, and sophisticated look. And why wear the fab jewelry at all, if she's just going to cover it up with the masses of hair?

I do not see any mystery why Kate is so much more picked on than Sophie or other royal ladies. Kate is much more beautiful than most women, she is even more attractive than most of the highly paid models. She is tall, slender and sportive, has wonderful hair, an incredibly beautiful face and as if that was not enough, she comes from a rich family with only attractive members. Mother, father, sister, brother are all attractive alike, well-educated and seem to be more sophisticated than some members of the royal family.

You must be quite self-assured not to feel jealousy when seeing that woman who seems to have everything life can offer. So this is where the “knobby knees” and other incomprehensible comments come from. In a remote part of my mind I even understand these women, but cattiness cannot be the answer, ladies, because you only poison yourselves with that.

Let’s rather enjoy our own beauty, because we may not be as pretty as Kate but ugly we are not, neither inside nor outside. :-)

eelady, I agree with you 100%. Her hair is gorgeous, I don't dispute that, but it does tend to overpower her day and evening wear. To date, this is my favorite evening look on her. And wouldn't these earring have worked beautifully with this gown!?

Marion, I think there is a lot of truth to what you say. A lot! And IMO you made the point in a very kind and thoughtful manner. Constructive criticism is one thing, but when it becomes rather mean spirited and personal, it isn't about Kate.

artistswriter, I think her role is more or REPRESENTATIVE vs UPLIFTER. The latter is perhaps more appropriate for the queen? I do agree that evening events/red carpet are the place to show REGAL and ROYAL and she missed it yesterday.

I also completely agree with Maggie's comments of how her evening gown attires are always perfect as opposed to most of her day outfits.

Lastly, I have now in my mind that her ears are bigger than what she would like them to be and that is why she keeps using her hair as a protective curtain, making us "miss out" the few times she pulls out gorgeous jewelry.

Must quibble a bit with Marion, Kate is lovely, no question and this blog is about her so naturally we hear more opinions about her but I don't think it's all jealously. Kate is just the subject at hand.

And frankly while the Middletons are a handsome family, I wouldn't term them well-educated as a whole. James is a university drop-out with a struggling if not failing cake business and Pippa seemed to use her education more for social opportunity - she has done little since other than ride on her sister's fame with opportunities she would never have received if she wasn't Kate's sister. .

As for Sophie - she had quite a career going, for better or for worse. And on blogs that cover all royal ladies, she has faced her share of fashion criticism, I recall a feathery disaster she wore this year for the garter ceremony. There were a ton of comments about it on OSS..

As for Kate, some of the European royal ladies are also most lovely but I don't see any of this as a rivalry any more than jealously - the ladies stand and fall on their own merits.

As for this outfit, I like it and think it's quite dashing. But hope Kate isn't obsessed with showing off her legs as her pregnancy progresses as she was last time. Her pregnancy with George was her least successful fashion period in my mind and other royal ladies like Charlene presently show it doesn't have to be. Think Kate has looked great in these last couple of engagements and hope she keeps the same skirt length.

I first saw this from another news outlet and nearly fainted because it looked like a hi-lo dress. I couldn't fathom that the Duchess of Cambridge would wear a hi-lo dress! I'm so glad to see that it was really an interesting take on a wrap dress....and I LOVE IT! It's certainly a gown, but not as formal of many of her others. The underskirt may be too short as a dress by itself, but the overskirt balances it out so that it's sexy, not sleazy. It shows off her beautiful legs quite nicely.

I love that in movement the dress shows off those fabulous shoes. I adore the jewelry (want it!), although I would have loved to have a better look at it with her hair back a bit. I know some people don't like blue dress/pink accessories combination, but I actually really do. It's interesting without being over the top. Those are the kinds of "risks" I like to see her take.

It's so simple, but really memorable and certainly different--beautiful look!

I must be misinterpreting something! Are bloggers suggesting that the Queen, the Princess Royal, and Camilla make better sartorial choices than Kate?! I don't like everything Kate wears (What fun it is to debate pros and cons--god, I do the same with my own clothes and my daughter's clothes--looks better from the back than the front, like the lines but not the fabric, should have worn the other shoes, etc., etc., etc.). However, Kate certainly dresses better on a bad day than Anne and Camilla. I don't think the Princess Royal even makes a particular effort! And Camilla really misses the boat sometimes. Even the Queen got on a kick a few years ago of wearing the same dress over and over--in different colors --and her purse is NOT to die for. She's doing better now, and certainly she looks always looks beautiful to me, but she's 85 years old beautiful! Kate is 32!

And I hope this doesn't sound mean, but the reality is that Princess Anne doesn't appear to be the least bit interested in fashion. Something tells me she'd be the first to admit it! :) Most of her choices look like the adult version of school uniforms.

I have always been in the minority in liking Princess Anne's rather streamlined style. She dresses like the horsewoman she is, at home, and like a North American for her work. She wears tailored jackets with nice accessories such as silk scarves. Even in middle age, Anne has the tall, slim figure to appear athletic and businesslike in her daily attire, and to wear her designer outfits for decades. And she can turn up looking very elegant at the races.

I'm needing a magnifying glass to identify the small, dark numbers on dark backgrounds that the anti-robot program is showing me tonight!

I think that CP Mary of Denmark is the most successfully elegant among the modern day royals when it comes to evening wear. She consistently dresses with regal elegance without falling into the frumpy territory when it comes to gala events. Her daywear, on the other hand, can be quite hit and miss, but it has improved lately. She was absolutely gorgeous for the opening of Folketinget (Parliament) this month.

Here's a few pics:From the opening of Folketinget 2014: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/472807660854065503/

One of the outfits that won her a 3rd place on Vanity fair's Best Dressed list: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/472807660853432975/

The ultimate Mary dress, burgundy velvet, that she has worn many many times because it is just too beautiful to keep in the closet: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/472807660852862641/

Catherine has some wonderful evening gowns - the teal Jenny Packham she wore with an updo (can't remember when) is stunning, and I wish she would repeat that more often. The emerald green she wore for another gala is beautiful as well through I would have liked to see the slit somewhat lower because I really do think that it isn't appropriate for royalty to be as racy in their clothing choices as a Hollywood starlet.

Let me clarify. I did not intend to insult the Princess Royal. I think that she looks attractive and appropriate, but I don't expect any blogs dedicated to a discussion of her fashions--nor would she approve of any such blog, as far as I can surmise.

I think the Duchess looks radiant and so appropriate for the occasion. Love that she frequently wears 'repeats' as evidenced with the shoes. I hope she continues to feel well enough for engagements as it is such fun to see the posts. Thank you for tasteful coverage.

I imagine she did not feel like sitting and having her hair done. Hair spray never smelled good to me when I was prego. She probably wore something that made her feel good and was easy maybe even quick to get into. -- She looks good for any woman today. Very good for a woman that has been very ill and pregnant. Glad she feels good enough to return to public life. -- One more thing. A public event might be easier to back out of than an event that just she alone was supposed to attend. No one is depending or waiting on Kate to appear with little backup support.

Kate's natural hair is bushy, fizzy curls - see many of her holiday pictures or even her recent 'date' pictures where you could see the texture despite the hair being wet. The hair she presents in public, especially since she became a duchess is the result of a skilled hairdresser and tonnes of hair spray.

Love, Love, Love! She looked amazing and I am so wishing I had someplace to where those shoes!

Also, I know that her hair is everywhere, but I really think it is the way Kate feels "dressed up". In the candid shots from the past (at dinner with Will, at the doctor, playing with George in Aus) her hair is either up, half-way up and or air-dried and completely curly. I love that she is so casual on her off time, just like most moms. In fact my hair is air-drying as we speak. So I think when she goes out, wearing her hair down is just what feels dressy to her. Wish we could see the necklace better, but oh well, we can't have everything :).

Charlotte, I think you've put in the best appearance of the whole day!! Thank YOU for the info about the exhibit and a glimpse at some of the stunning photography!! Love the background and commentary that you always provide, whether it's about the events, the other folks involved or the wonderful sites of these events!! I confess - anymore, I read the blog for the other information you include and not necessarily to read about the royals! Actually, since you so kindly provided the photo, the luxe beaded gowns, to me, look more youthful. I love the design of the gown but not a fan of the duchess in pastels and not particularly a fan of pastel gowns at evening events, too cutesy or gimmicky or something. This gown reminds me a lot, in the concept at least, of the stunning black gown that Diana wore to the Serpentine Gallery, the famous "Revenge Dress," she wore the night that Charles confessed to his affair with Camilla. Kate looks considerably better at this event than she did earlier today but she still looks very tense, not so much tired as just very tense and a little unhappy. Lovely necklace but a waste of it since we can't hardly see it but I do like her hair down this time. Wasn't entirely a fan of the ponytail earlier, seemed really old on her for some reason. It's funny, I loved those shoes with the pink beaded gown, I LOATHE them with this dress. They're just too - much with that ribbon, for this dress. Pale blue suede platform pumps or a light grey platform pump would have been a good choice. But truly, hats off to you, Charlotte! You do a wonderful job!!

Wow, wow, wow. I have been a bit critical of her choices as of late, but this is FABULOUS. I love the shape of this dress, the surprise split to the waist and the way it shows off her legs. And the material looks dreamy - the soft color and flow to the fabric paired with the delicate jewelry and rosy shoes and clutch is absolute perfection. I even like the hair down b/c of the dreamy movement of the entire ensemble. THIS is royalty and I love it.

Thank you so much for all your hard work today! How fantastic to have two appearances and your great coverage.

This is simply "out of the park" in my opinion! Love the gown- colour, cut, interesting skirt detail-only wish I had the figure to wear something similar. I loved all the accessories, especially the necklace and the shoes!!

I wish Kate had styled her hair so it was not so all encompassing but this loose and flowing style is clearly a preferred one for her as we frequently see it.

She looks much better than I thought she would. I hope she has turned a corner and will feel much better from now on. I wish we didn't have to hear all the speculation about whether she is really sick and is the Palace spinning it so she can get out of work. There are doctors whose professional reputations are based on the diagnosis they give Kate. It's highly unlikely they would diagnose HG just to give Kate time off! How silly! I think she's doing the best she can.

I LOVE this outfit! Fresh, youthful, sexy and fashion forward but conservative all the same. I was instantly wowed when I saw the pictures. I am not sure about the pink shoes with baby blue dress. I would have picked something more neutral in color. But the style of the shoe was a challenge....she needed something that worked with a long skirt and a short skirt and on that account she nailed it. I too like it when she wears her hair up but this dress is so youthful that I think it is better with her hair down. Undos make her look older. If she was to change up the accessories and wear something bold (like she did with the statement necklace and her cream Roland Mouret dress..then maybe an undo would work. But I like these soft more understated pieces as well.

I like her hair down (It was gorgeous--those pregnancy hormones are working their lustrous magic!), and I like the pony tail and half up/half down a lot! Unlike most of you, I really don't like most of the all up styles. Her hair is so think and heavy that the "construction" usually looks awkward and unwieldy to me. I'm in the minority, I know.

Sorry, I meant thick and heavy--I'm a retired English teacher, and I abhor all the careless mistakes (or sometimes just mistakes!--not so careless, I fear!) that we native English speakers make on this blog. Many bloggers from all over the world use these posts as a way to improve their English. We need to be more careful about setting a good example--and I'm including myself in this admonition!

I love the dress and the shoes. I think light colors look great on HRH. She looks much better than this morning, I think. It appears that she is more rested for this evening appearance, which makes sense.

As always, Charlotte, it's not just about Kate or the fashion. I love the photography, especially the photographs taken by the children. Wish we could see more.

KATE LOOKS FANTASTIC! Such a fresh, young look. I think she nailed this style choice; the dress looks light in colour and weight, and is a perfect mix of trendy and elegant. After looking (sorry to say) very weathered this morning it is nice to see her looking so bright and youthful!

This is the best outfit, hitting all the right notes, I have seen Catherine wear in a while. Instead of starchy and stuffy, it was flowy, soft, and modern. So happy for her, her beautiful figure, and feminine, youthful look tonight! The dreamy powder blue was such a sweet, romantic color to choose. Her jewelry was dainty and included my absolute favorite, rose gold; in my opinion so much gentler and rosy with her skin colour. The suede is great for autumn, and that lovely, lovely ribbon on the shoes. The heel is the perfect height for comfort as well. Her clutch complimented, and her hair was lush with the pregnancy 'glow.' Above all, she wore a youthful, classy, and simple design that highlighted her femininity and grace. Love it, Catherine!! Xx Emily Rose

agree the dress is nice but a little bit boring - it needs some detail and some interest - the overlay opened too far to keep it elegant. it would also have been better with her hair back from her chest to show off the necklace better.

I like the shoes, clutch, hair, jewellery, Kate herself but not the dress. It is just is not for me. Think its a bit ho hum, nothing really stands out as awful about it but it doesn't grab my attention either. Shame her hair wasn't up so we could see her beautiful necklace better.

Thanks for the great post - was looking forward to it! Its so nice to see Kate out and about, she looks really happy and vibrant which is good to see - after weeks of battling HG. I love the shade of blue of her gown, quite becoming. I noticed this gown was similar to the one she wore on the BBC Awards - in terms of the slit - when she had mostly recovered from HG when she was pregnant with George. Anyone else notice that? The pictures on display were superb, I would love to see them up close! I wish Kate a healthy pregnancy and continued recovery and cant wait to read of more engagements!

My jaw literally dropped when I saw this because I completely wasn't expecting it. I thought she would wear something a bit more demure simply because of her recent illness, but she looks like she's saying 'I'm Baaaackk' with this. Flirty, fun, beautiful cut and colour...what more could we ask for? (apart from an updo of some sort to show off her new jewellery)Interesting to see in photos of her side on that she's not "desperately thin" like all the tabloids have been saying, but (correct me if I'm wrong) could her bump be showing slightly already which is why she chose the wrap around style, like she did the grey one when pregnant with George?

I wouldn't call it a bump yet, but she looks a little thinker and fuller--as she should. So happy to see that the emaciated rumors from the tabloids were hogwash, as usual. She looked a perfect, healthy size for one entering her second trimester.

You are kind, Rebecca--and SO articulate in English! I presume it is not your first language since you hail from Sweden. I am so impressed--and envious of all you multi-linguists. I'm pathetic in French, which is supposedly my second language.

Well, either the baby is due at the very beginning of April or she is expecting twins (ha - I´m starting a new "blog rumour"!! ;-)))) ) - her waistline is definitely already changing. Either way, I´m glad she seems to be on the mend and looks quite her radiant self in these pictures. During the state visit I couldn´t help thinking she looked not as radiant as she usually does (maybe she really does feel a little bit better in the evenings). Well, enough speculated, one thing is for sure: Charlotte another great job, thank you so much !!

I thought Kate looked pretty this evening. And in the morning as well.

Although for me I would hardly call that dress "daring, revealing, risqué, sexy, etc." like some of the papers and reporters are calling it. The teal Jenny Packham with the low v-neck and exposed lace back was more sexy. Also for it to be bespoke, which basically is custom made for you, no one else will have it, I've seen plenty of dresses like that just shopping at the mall on a Saturday. So it's nothing new for me unfortunately, dresses like the one she's wearing have been worn before. But that's just my opinion. And I wish she had of worn different shoes, they're pretty but clash with the dress. Still think she looks good.

WOW! She looked incredible! Talk about knocking them dead. Gorgeous. Also, any one else think we may have gotten a little taste of Kate's humor with the color scheme? I sure did! LOL A little blue, and a little pink and no one can speculate that she is hinting at the sex of the baby. oh how very cheeky of her royal highness.

The dress is beautiful, but I agree it might have been a better choice for summer. I wonder if this is a dress she had made for her trip to Malta, and this is the first chance she had to wear it. Wonderful reporting Charlotte!

I think Kate looks awesome in this dress. For a second, it sort of reminded me of the dress that Queen Mathilde of Belgium wore when William and Kate visited Belgium back in early August of this year. Obviously way sexier! Go, Kate!

For those asking about what Kate might wear tomorrow. It's a black tie event dinner at a very trendy Italian restaurant in the heart of London. Guests will enjoy a pre-dinner reception with a pianist and hear comedian Rory Bremmer. I think it's quite likely we'll see another gown, depending on how formal/informal the event is.

Hi Charlotte Did yoj notice if Kate had on her eternity ring yesterday and last night? My eyes are bad so I could not see it. I guess that is part of getting old...lolAnd the pieces of jjewerly she wore last night any idea if it was a gift from William. I was thinking maybe a little something since she has been so sick with their second baby. Just a thought.Hope all is well with you. I am still recovery from the accident. It just takes a little long for an older person to heal, so they tell me.Can't wait until we see Kate tomorrow. Another diaper duty night for William...lol

My guess is it will be a repeat. Yesterday was for art, museum, photography and that way it was "ok" with a new dress. But I think if anything fits right on her she might reuse something tomorrow because the gala is for a charity. Just my prediction!

I don't know why, and I can't explain it but I thought that after her illness and absence, she would attend low-key events ... Don't get me wrong.. I thought she would feel more comfortable visiting charties not galas or dinners in a trendy restaurant ...

I think the timing just happened to be that way. And also, if her HG have morphed into something more similar to morning sickness, she might be feeling better in the evenings (as seen comparing yesterdays engagements) and the "only" engagements in the evening is the more fancy ones.

As Rebecca and Royalfan have said it was very much a case of how Kate felt. These events would have been pencilled in for Kate some time ago and during this time of the year we tend to see more red carpet events. For Action on Addiction, this is an important night with an auction afterwards and Kate's attendance will maximise interest.

Pretty much in agreement with many of you here, this is a gorgeous dress and looks great on Kate, but she could have used a stylist to put it all together. It's just little things that could totally elevate this look. The hair is hiding the pretty necklace and earrings, leaving the distinct impression that something is missing. If you are going to hide the jewelry behind hair, why wear it at all? She could have worn a sparkly bracelet or cuff, and a standout ring on the right hand, and that would set off the whole outfit much better. But hey, the hemline is daring and the shoes are a welcome change from standard pumps...so that's a plus.

Kate looks wonderfully glamourous with the simple look that has always suited her so well. Very elegant for the Singapore visit too - lovely to see her back - even if she looked a little weary yesterday.

I saw this awesome comment from some anon at another site. (Took out the bad words...)

"I think what Kate wore was so smart. She knew everyone would be staring at her belly so what does she do? She wears a dress expertly draped over the area she want's to minimize and shows us some leg in a pair of kick-ass shoes. Suddenly, no one's looking for a 'baby bump' because HOT **** THOSE LEGS! The woman is ******* brilliant."

I love this beautifully draped blue gown, when Kate is standing still. When she is walking (see videos), I am a bit shocked. Kate for some reason loves to display her legs, but to me this is a strange look. The short skirt doesn't go with the gown, and too much is revealed to be elegant. I thought the shoes looked much better with the other Jenny Packham gown, though the touch of pink is indeed humorous. And I agree with those who prefer hosiery with evening sandals. Kate's lush hair is beautiful worn down and flowing, though I wish she would push it back a bit when she wears a beautiful necklace.

Kat looked so much better than she did in the morning, much more rested and happy. It's good to see her out and about!

I have read all the comments and I am astonished because I found so many times the adjective "sexy" that in my opinion doesn't get very well with the essential adjective "royal". Remember that Catherine is not a celebrity, on a red carpet, she is a Royal Duchess.

Anon C, I agree completely that Catherine is not a celebrity, but a Royal Duchess, but there is an element of celebrity there. When you define celebrity it is a famous person and/or the state of being well known. Kate is famous and is obviously well known. So while definitely not the Hollywood celebrity on the red carpet, again the celebrity element is there. I would consider the Queen and other members of the Royal family the same.

I also agree that the adjectives royal and sexy don't quite go together, but while royal, Kate is also a young, beautiful, stylish lady. My first thought after seeing the post last night was how good she must have felt just getting dressed and fixed up after being ill and housebound for more than 8 weeks. I think even a member of the Royal family can be elegant, fresh, and yes, sexy. :) Kate looked amazing!

Hi CharlotteI went to visit my grandmother in hospital today. She's 89 and not well. Instead of the usual magazines I took in my laptop & read your 2 latest blog posts & showed her the photos. She thinks you do a wonderful job.

She asked me to tell you that it's a great pity that younger generations only know the Queen as an old woman wearing coats because she was a style icon to her generation. 'Very glamorous like a film star with the clothes & jewels to match'. Gran loves the period in the 50s & early 60s when the Queen's dresses were inspired by Dior. she talked about off the shoulder & strapless evening dresses & close fitting day dresses that really showed off the Queen's hour glass figure.

We talked a bit about the criticism of the Duchess. She says 'when you're as old as I am you know they've all had their ups & downs including the Queen'. She remembers the Queen being criticised for going off to Malta for months at a time to be with Prince Phillip & leaving her duties & her children behind.

She also said a very wise thing - that's it's very easy to admire the Queen for her work ethic because she's a very old woman and you can see a whole life spread out before you so you can assess the contribution she's made. The same with Prince Charles, Princess Anne and the older royals who are in their 60s. But with the Duchess she's only at the beginning of her royal life and so it's impossible to say now what contribution she's going to make but she thinks she's got off to a good start.

So Charlotte a heartfelt thanks again for all the work you do on this blog - it really lifted my gran's spirits today.

It is just so lovely and sweet to hear you read the blog to your grandmother. I am so pleased she enjoyed it. It's interesting because my grandmother often tells me how stylish HM was and my mother discussed how all her friends would buy every magazine Diana was on the cover of. Now it's Kate.

Please say a big hello to your grandmother for me and I hope she's feeling well :)

blue wren, I hope your grandmother is feeling better. And thank you so much for sharing her thoughts on the "big picture." It is especially interesting to learn that HM was criticized for leaving her children and duties behind. Amazing.

Both QEII and Princess Margaret wore some absolutely stunning couture gowns in their youth, as did Queen Margethe II and Queen Paola of Belgium, who was possibly one of the most beautiful royal women when she was young. 50s fashion also had some very flattering silhouettes for women who aren't as tall and very slender like Kate and CP Mary.

It is said to be typical of beautiful women to look breathtaking at first sight and to reveal many defects at a closer look.It was the case of Kate this time .... stunning, absolutely stunning, but it is true that her hair were concealing her jewellery and an updo would have worked better, it is true that those sandals did not work well, it is true that the double lenght was perhaps too hot for a royal duchess, and let me add that her thighs were no perfection as she did gain some weight ... but she still looked absolutely stunning!

Haha, royalfan. I sure as heck would. Be very content in fact!! (Can't help about thinking how imperfect Anon would think my thighs to be!) Hers is like freaking muscle on a stick! How can that be "she gained some weight". She have gained some weight, but that doesn't make her thighs look like thighs when you've "gained some weight".... URK!

If anybody wants to see the Duchess "in action" - there´s as usual a wonderful clip on itn news (google itn news royal). It´s absolutely lovely to see the Duchess interact with the little boy. She´s also much more confident compared to her appearance during her first pregnancy when she attended the sports award ceremony. And you can definitely see the baby bump beginning to show! I think it´s great that she continues to wear body-hugging styles during her pregnancy - it´s such a wonderful thing - why should women hide it? And why not add a litte "sexy" to it? As blue wren´s grandmother correctly reminded us - the Queen used to wear quite "daring" evening gowns when she was young (ok - "daring" for the 50ies), too. I can´t wait to see the pictures of tonight´s event!!!!!

I saw a clip of when he receives the award and I thought it was quite funny. Poor little guy. Wish they had told him to smile and pose for the picture. Everyone in the audience laughed :P I know I would have too but I wish they had not.

This dress is beautiful, but it does seem a little summery for an October function. I wonder if it was created for her to wear in Malta (how gorgeous with the sea background!), and this is the first opportunity she has had to wear it. Thank you, Blue Wren, for passing on your grandmother's comments about the Queen. How wonderful to think of her as a young and beautiful wife and mother, let alone gaining all the responsibilities of the monarchy at the same time.

OMG she is just simply gorgeous! I loved the comment about how she contemplated everyone looking at her tummy for a sign of the new baby, so she diverted their gazes elsewhere. Made a good point and I just loved her look - all the way around. She just rocked last night. Can't wait to see what she has in store for us tonight! Super happy that she is feeling better and I'm sure she will still have some ups and downs since it's still early days, but if this pregnancy is like the last, she'll be better soon. Great post as always Charlotte!

I was very happy to see Kate looked so much better - rested, happier, more relaxed - for this event as opposed to the morning event (perhaps the other seemed more overwhelming and she is more at easy with important yet "more casual" and perhaps her condition is not as good during the morning, anyway). Her face looked so much better - less puffy eyes - and she seemed really happy.

I didn't like this outfit. At first I thought it was the exact same as the white Roland Mouret Gown (with just a dress description before pictures) and immediately thought, "oh how boring". I also had a more vivid blue in mind (again, based on a description). I didn't like the look of the dress when she walked or bent down (showing a separate skirt). I found it's called "mullet dress" and I absolutely dislike it. It wants to be sexy and youthful but with those shoes, the color and her hair I just find it truly boring.

I was also surprised JP could design such a boring dress. Whenever I see a JP gown it also has a "WOW" factor. (I loved the teal JP with lace back and the blush JP she wore in the US. GORGEOUS gowns!)

Her shoes are nice but just added a boring touch to this outfit. Her hair, while her trademark, shouts BORING to me. Perhaps I've seen styled this way one too many times. If it were not so often I would love it. She has awesome hair. Her jewelry was completely hidden. I didn't even notice until the blogs pointed them out and you can never appreciate them. I find this awfully sad because she hardly ever wears any different jewelry and when she does it is hidden behind her hair.

I will also make this observation... I have always thought Kate uses her hair as a "protective curtain" and I'm sure at some point (I hope) she will no longer feel she needs it but I now also think she has big ears and that is also why she hides them. Either she or her hairstylist believes so. I noticed how her hairs were hidden in the morning event in the ponytail and how when she moved to a half-up they were sure not to leave her ears "exposed". Well, she does have big ears but they are still fine. When she has her hair down and later places some behind her ears (while fidgeting) she just makes them stick out even more. Kate looks gorgeous with her hair pulled back/away from her face because she has a beautiful face. I hope she grows in confidence to be ok with them. - Yes, this is my crazy conspiracy theory because I have a couple of friends with that issue and it just dawned on me that she uses their same hair tricks.

This look is a "so so" for me. I think Kate has the body to show off her looks! The color of the dress, though, did not really do it for me. I think she would have looked more elegant if her hair was pulled back. Either in a sleek pony, or the chignon. But in general I think she looked very nice, and I am so glad to see her out and about! We have missed Kate!

Beatrix,I wouldn't call it a mullet dress because that type of dress has a very differet silhouette with a wider skirt of a heavier material. I think Kate's dress is more hi-lo than mullet. I really dislike the mullet appelation though. This type of dress can be absolutely divine in the hands of a master like Oscar de la Renta or Cristobal Balenciage, who came up with the design in the 1950s.

I have no idea why but this has become my favourite Kate look ever. Something about the light blue colour and her skin just look beyond stunning, and for some reason the shoes are just marvellous, I wouldn't have picked them out as being appropriate for this dress but just wow.Anyone else feel the same?!

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